I looked over a few Chemical Resistance Charts for PEX tubing. The hydrocarbons in gasoline, as well as the alcohol additions, appear to have no long-term effect.
Is it possible to utilize PEX for gas?
Yes, but it’s crucial to define your intended usage before ordering polyethylene pipe for your project because the names PE and PEX are commonly used interchangeably.
There isn’t a single PE pipe I’ve seen that can’t be utilized for both natural gas and propane.
The difference in pressure between natural gas and propane at the house meter, measured in inches of water column, is less than one pound.
The majority of my clients were unaware of this.
In today’s world, we live in a plastic world, and plastic pipe is a fantastic product for natural gas and propane installations.
If you’re planning a DIY project involving gas piping, just make sure you purchase the correct material.
Then type in “PEX pipe” and take a look at the various applications for PEX pipe.
Is PEX resistant to petroleum?
Unfortunately, there are no published programs to help detect which compounds are incompatible with PEX or PEX fittings when using PEX pipes and polysulfone or polyphenylsulfone fittings in PEX plumbing systems.
While no particular recommendation is mentioned, PEX manufacturers do make statements like the one below, which was extracted from a manufacturer’s design manual:
- “Do not spray organic substances, strong acids, or strong bases on piping or allow them to come into touch with it.”
- “Do not backfill in the immediate vicinity of the piping with highly plastic clays, silts, organic materials, or sharp or large pebbles.”
- “Where contact is likely, fittings require an overwrap of 4 to 6 mil poly or other equivalent waterproof protection.”
Whereas other materials and manufacturers leave you guessing about what will and won’t work with their products,
Is PEX suitable for use with a gas water heater?
Hot- and cold-water distribution systems, as well as service lines, are made of cross-linked polyethylene (PEX).
Unless specifically allowed in the code, do not use in situations where the temperature of the water could reach 180F at 100psi, such as a water heater relief line. For greater working temperatures at lower pressures, consult the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Install PEX tubing downstream of any instantaneous, point-of-use, or immersed coil water heater with an uncontrollable output or a temperature that can exceed 180F. Metallic transition fittings are recommended by the manufacturer.
If the local regulations and manufacturer’s instructions allow, PEX tubing can be connected directly to home electric tank or tankless(instantaneous) water heaters.
When using PEX tube to connect to a gas tank or tankless water heater, keep the tube at least 6 inches away from the heater’s exhaust vent. In some cases, flexible metal waterheater connectors may be required.
- MODEL 6 40 LBFS- 6 YEAR WARRANTY RELIANCE 40 GALLON SHORT ENERGY EFFICIENT LIQUID PROPANE WATER HEATER
Use threaded connections designed for the precise type of plastic pipe used in your home, such as CPVC or PEX (cross-linked polyethylene). PVC pipe should not be used.
The ASTM F 877 standard provides the performance standards for a PEX system, including tube and fittings. To mimic a water heater malfunction, it contains requirements for Minimum Burst at 73F and 180F, Sustained Pressure Test (1000 hours) at 73F and 180F, Thermocycling at 100 psi, andExcessive Temperature and Pressure for 30 days. The Zurn PEX systems fulfill ASTM F 877 standards.
The standard for brass or copper inserts and crimpfittings is ASTM F 1807. The dimensions for the insert or barbed component of the fittings are specified in this standard, as well as the permissible materials for these fittings. It also includes copper crimp ring dimensions and material specifications, as well as completed crimp dimensions. When tested with PEX tube, these fittings must exceed the ASTM F 877 performance criteria for PEX systems. Zurn PEXbrass insert fittings and copper crimp rings meet ASTM F 1807 specifications.
The standard for plastic insert and crimp fittings is ASTM F 2159.
This standard specifies the materials and dimensions that are permitted for fittings. It also includes some test requirements for determining the quality of the molding process used to create the fittings. When tested with PEX tube, these fittings must exceed the ASTM F877 performance criteria for PEX systems. Zurn PEX plastic insert fittings fulfill ASTM F 2159 standards.
The standard for “Cold Expansion Fittings” sold by Wirsbo/Uponor is ASTM F 1960. The standard number is provided in the print string on our tube because Zurn PEX tubing can be used with these fittings, but the system is not covered by the Zurn PEX warranty.
The standard for “Cold Expansion Fittings with Metal Compression Sleeves” sold by Rehau is ASTM F 2080. The standard number is provided in the print string on our tube because Zurn PEX tubing can be used with these fittings, but the system is not covered by the Zurn PEX warranty.
For brass or copper insertfittings meeting the standards of F 1807 or plastic insertfittings meeting the requirements of ASTM F 2159, ASTM F 2098 is the specification for a “Stainless Steel Clamp” to be used in place of a copper crimp ring. Zurn PEX sells rings that meet this standard’s specifications and backs them up with a special, limited-time warranty.
ASTM F 877 Test Requirements for PEX Plumbing Systems: Detailed Description
Burst Test at Room Temperature and 180FIn this test, sample assemblies are subjected to escalating pressures until they fail. The lowest allowable pressure varies depending on the tube size, however at ambient temperature it is 620 psi and at 180F it is 275 psi. The pressure is gradually increased until it reaches a point where it will fail in about one minute.
This test is significant because it indicates that the connection’s short-term strength exceeds the tube’s strength.
Continue reading at WATER HEATER SAFETY, or browse the ARTICLE INDEX for more information, or choose a topic from the closely connected topics below.
The Material Does Not Work Outside in Freezing Temperature Climates
PEX plumbing is fine inside a home’s walls, regardless of the temperature, because it can be insulated. However, one of the drawbacks of PEX plumbing is that it cannot be utilized outside in cold areas because there is no way to cover it and protect it from the elements.
Rodents Like the Plastic Pipes
Your neighborhood may have a rule prohibiting the usage of PEX pipes, depending on where you live. This is common in rural areas and towns, where garbage can attract a significant number of rats.
The rats then try to get into the house by chewing through pipes like these. The good news is that you may get rid of mice before they cause too much harm by hiring a professional. If you have an issue in your neighborhood, this is something to consider.
Some Pex Types Have Had Issues
Although it is not completely established, some professionals dislike Pex because it is too similar to polybutylene. Finally, because Pex is still relatively new, it has time to establish itself as a reliable piping system.
For gas lines, which pipe is the best?
CSST tubing, also known as corrugated stainless steel tubing, is ideal for gas appliance installation. Because these corrugated pipes can bend around curves, fewer joints and fittings are required.
What can I use in my home for gas lines?
Steel, black iron, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and copper are the most popular materials used to build gas piping. Some of these materials are prohibited by some utilities, so check with your local utility to see what is permitted in your region before installing any. If you employ a professional to complete the task, they will be familiar with the local regulations.
Flexible Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing
Corrugated stainless steel tubing is flexible and easy to install, and it works well in compact spaces and areas with a high risk of natural disasters. Flexible corrugated stainless steel tubing can crack over time, despite its ability to reduce damage. This material should only be used for indoor gas piping.
Galvanized Steel
Galvanized steel gas pipes are both energy efficient and long-lasting. Galvanized steel pipes are suitable for water supply lines since they may be used for both interior and outside gas lines. Because it is labor-intensive compared to other materials, this material is commonly found in older homes and is not used in new structures nowadays.
Black Iron
The most frequent material used to manufacture gas pipes, both inside and outside, is black iron. The substance is durable, heat resistant, and can be molded into an airtight seal. Black iron, on the other hand, can corrode and its sealant erode over time. Consider contacting a professional for routine maintenance if your gas pipes are constructed of black iron.
PVC
Because PVC gas pipes are sturdy and corrosion-resistant, they’re ideal for underground outside gas lines. Although PVC pipes are a cost-effective option, some places do not allow them since they can break during installation.
HDPE
HDPE pipes, like PVC pipes, are appropriate for buried outside lines. Although these plastic pipes are flexible and affordable, they can be damaged by subsurface material such as rocks and tree roots.
Copper
Some towns do not allow copper gas lines, therefore their use is limited. Copper pipes have severe code requirements that limit their use due to their estimated life of 20 years.
Is PEX pipe chemically resistant?
Despite the fact that PEX Tubing is chemically resistant, we recommend that the maximum pressure applied at 180F be reduced by 80%.
Is bleach harmful to PEX pipe?
The failures of the PEX were found to be consistent with chlorine degradation in lab tests. When chlorine in drinking water, which is added to keep it clean and safe for human consumption, assaults PEX piping, it breaks down molecular bonds, resulting in micro-cracks that eventually increase to the point of pipe failure. As a result, chlorine-neutralizing chemicals are included in PEX pipes in order to lengthen the pipe’s life.
While PEX is tested for chlorine resistance, various factors, including as elevated temperatures and pressures, exposure to UV radiation from the sun or fluorescent lights, and local water conditions, all enhance the chance of chlorine failures in PEX.